Environmental markets present opportunities for landowners and investors to create additional revenue streams through the conservation and enhancement of natural resources. This industry currently generates several billion dollars per year and it is expected to continue to grow in the United States in response to federal and state policies. Wetland compensatory mitigation is the largest market, estimated to be worth $1.4 – 2.5 billion annually in the United States [1]. While credit prices vary, wetland credits have been sold for as much as $1 million, and credits typically sell for more than $50,000 in the U.S.

WRA conducts opportunity assessments to help both landowners and investors evaluate the potential of natural assets in the context of various environmental markets, including wetland banking, species banking, carbon offsets trading, and water quality trading. These assessments can be done on individual parcels or across larger landscapes, including both private and publicly-owned lands. While the assessments are tailored to meet the needs of individual clients, they typically include ecological, market, regulatory and financial analyses. To complete these comprehensive assessments, WRA relies on a diverse team of biologists, permitting specialists, landscape architects, financial advisors and mitigation banking specialists.

The opportunity assessment results can be used to inform sales and acquisitions, loan applications, and investments, and can clarify whether mitigation banking or another environmental market is right for you. When assessment results indicate a clear opportunity for the landowner, WRA will guide clients through the subsequent stages of developing a monetization strategy, and developing, implementing and financing the project. In some instances, WRA will play an asset management role as well to ensure efficient operations and financial sustainability over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Case Studies

For examples of the different types of studies WRA has completed, see links to our case studies below. If you would like to better understand the full economic potential of your property’s natural resources, please contact us WRA’s Chief Investment Officer, Ben Guillon at 303-416-1501 or guillon@wra-ca.com.